The Digital Fix: Film

Rami Malek to play Freddie Mercury in Upcoming Queen Biopic

Talk of a biopic about iconic british rock band Queen has been in the air for several years now. Various names have been tied to the project over the years, but yesterday it was announced that Freddie Mercury would be portrayed by Rami Malek, star of popular drama Mr Robot.

Sacha Baron Cohen is one actor who was previously set to play the music legend, but withdrew from the project over creative differences. Cohen reportedly disagreed with the desired ‘family friendly’ approach of the film focusing on how Queen carried on after the death of their frontman. He wanted a more R-rated angle more accurately reflecting Freddie’s life. The bisexual singer did drugs and died of complications relating to his AIDS - truths that don’t make for a particularly PG film.

Malek’s casting has been generally well received, despite the fact that many Queen fans agree with Cohen’s viewpoint about which story the biopic should tell. No matter how adult-oriented or not the role ends up being, the award-winning actor is sure to deliver. Having appeared in Night At The Museum, The Pacific, and other franchises in addition to Mr Robot, Malek has proven himself to be a consistent and talented actor.

The Queen film is set to be directed by Bryan Singer, who has worked most famously on the X Men franchise. Original band members Brian May and Roger Taylor will be overseeing the music aspects of the movie, and shooting is anticipated to begin in 2017.

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